Tooth-ColoredFillings
About Tooth-Colored Fillings in Cleveland, OH
Cavities, one of the most common dental issues, develop when bacteria erode the tooth enamel. To treat the cavity, the bacteria must be cleaned out before the cavity is filled. Previously, cavities were treated with amalgam fillings made with different combinations of metals, including silver, gold, and mercury. Today, we know that amalgam fillings don't bond with the teeth well and that mercury could be dangerous to your health. At MINT dentistry in Cleveland, OH, we are committed to providing our patients state-of-the-art treatments that meet their dental needs while keeping their smile stunning. This is why our premier dental facility uses tooth-colored fillings to treat cavities in your enamel. An advanced dental restoration, tooth-colored fillings are made with a composite resin and fill in cleaned-out cavities after it is shaded to blend seamlessly into your natural enamel. The experienced, board-certified MINT dentists in Cleveland, OH are committed to providing you and your family with the highest-quality dental care using modern tooth-colored fillings for the age-old problem of cavities.
Tooth-Colored Vs. Amalgam Fillings
For over a hundred years, millions of patients had their cavities filled with amalgam fillings comprised of a metal-based compound. Amalgam fillings were the only option available to treat a dental cavity and restore the tooth. Unlike composite fillings, opening your mouth wide to yawn, laugh, or talk makes amalgam fillings easy to see. Although many individuals still have amalgam fillings, our board MINT dentists use composite resin fillings to treat tooth decay and match the natural color of your teeth for an enhanced smile.
When Is a Composite Filling Needed?
Once your MINT team has removed the decay from the tooth, the cavity is filled with composite resin. Composite resin is a versatile material that can also treat other issues, like sealing small cracks or building up enamel that has been worn down by grinding your teeth. Since the composite resin is colored to blend with your enamel, tooth-colored fillings are used on any tooth for a seamless appearance. If you have metal fillings, speak with your Cleveland, OH dentist about having them replaced with fillings made with composite resin.
How Is a Composite Filling Placed?
By utilizing advanced technology, tooth-colored fillings at MINT dentistry and a quick and effective procedure. Before beginning your procedure, a team member will show you how to use the massaging feature on our comfortable treatment chair, then you can decide on what music you want to listen to during the procedure. The areas surrounding the cavity will then be numbed using local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. Other forms of sedation can be reviewed with one of our MINT dentists to help any dental fears or anxieties so you can stay relaxed and comfortable. When you're at ease and prepared, the decayed area will be very gently removed with an advanced dental drill. After the affected enamel is removed and the surrounding enamel is cleaned, the hole will be sealed with composite resin and set. Your dentist will polish the filling so it is smooth and matches your natural teeth.
Dental Filling Aftercare
Once the filling has been cured, a firm surface is formed, allowing you to return to your normal diet and routine after your appointment. You might have some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures for a couple of days, but this should resolve on its own. If needed, you can take an over-the-counter pain relief medication, but most patients typically report little to no discomfort. We strongly recommend you return after getting a filling for an adjustment to make sure your bite has not been altered. Bite complications are common because your mouth has been numbed with local anesthesia, but it is usually a quick, simple fix. Just call us. Your tooth-colored filling can be kept clean with a home oral care routine, including brushing and flossing daily. At your future exams, we will assess your filling and determine if it should be replaced or repaired at any point. Tooth-colored fillings typically look natural and last for a long time. To keep your teeth healthy and beautiful, it's important to attend regular dental cleanings and examinations with a board-certified MINT dentist in Cleveland, OH
The MINT Commitment
Because cavities are often treated with tooth-colored fillings, your dental insurance policy may cover a portion of your costs. The financial team at MINT dentistry will speak to your insurance provider to determine your exact coverage before calculating your personal cost. If you do not have insurance, the MINT dentistry support staff will talk to you about the payments we accept and medical financing options. MINT dentistry wants to help everyone in Cleveland, OH get sexy teeth, and we are committed to making it easy for everyone to fit dental care into their budget. Ask a member of our team to find out how your routine cleanings and treatments, like tooth-colored fillings, are priced under our exclusive MINT Discount Plan.
A Bright, Healthy Smile
MINT dentistry offers tooth-colored fillings to quickly and effectively treat your cavity to keep your smile stunning. With modern techniques and state-of-the-art dental equipment, small areas of tooth decay can be treated with tooth-colored fillings. Our skilled dental professionals will ensure your filling matches your natural enamel for an attractive smile and better oral health. If you suspect you or a family member has a dental cavity, contact MINT dentistry in Cleveland, OH to schedule a dental exam.